ROTRONIC HygroLab User Manual

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11	Rotronic AG
	Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code	Unit
HygroLab bench top indicator version 4:	Instruction Manual
instruction manual		Document Type
Document title	Page 1 of 51

HygroLab Bench Top Indicator version 4

Instruction Manual

© 2006; Rotronic AG

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11

		Rotronic AG
IN-E-HyLab-V4_11		Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code		Unit
HygroLab bench top indicator version 4:		Instruction Manual
instruction manual			Document Type
		Page	2 of 51
Document title
Table of contents
1	Overview ....................................................................................................................................		3
2	General description ..................................................................................................................		4
2.1	Power requirements................................................................................................................		4
2.2	Probes and probe inputs.........................................................................................................		4
2.3	Analog outputs (optional) ........................................................................................................		6
2.4	Serial interface (HygroLab 2 and 3)........................................................................................		7
2.5	Optional Ethernet (TCP/IP) interface (HygroLab 2 and 3)......................................................		9
3 Optional configuration and communication software ........................................................			10
4 How to configure the HygroLab ............................................................................................			10
4.1	Internal service connector (HygroLab configuration)............................................................		10
4.2	Baud rate compatibility requirements ...................................................................................		11
4.3	Ethernet local area network ..................................................................................................		11
4.4	RS-485 multi-drop network (HygroLab 2 and 3)...................................................................		12
4.5	Selection of the probe supply voltage (main PCB) ...............................................................		14
5	Operation.................................................................................................................................		14
5.1	Unit system ...........................................................................................................................		15
5.2	Display and keypad...............................................................................................................		15
5.3	Probe Input Selection............................................................................................................		16
6	Function menu ........................................................................................................................		16
6.1	CALCULATE (HygroLab 2 and 3).........................................................................................		17
6.2	MODE (HygroLab 3) .............................................................................................................		18
6.3	DISPLAY (HygroLab 2 and 3)...............................................................................................		21
6.4	ADJUST M.PT ......................................................................................................................		21
6.5	ADJUST 1PT.........................................................................................................................		23
6.6	ADJUST REF........................................................................................................................		24
6.7	PROBE..................................................................................................................................		25
6.8	SETTINGS ............................................................................................................................		25
6.9	SYS STATUS........................................................................................................................		26
7 Error and status messages....................................................................................................			26
8	Connectors..............................................................................................................................		27
9	Environmental limits ..............................................................................................................		28
10 Maintenance of the ROTRONIC probes................................................................................			29
11	Specifications..........................................................................................................................		30
12 Practical advice for measuring humidity .............................................................................			31
13	Probe calibration basics ........................................................................................................		31
13.1	Temperature calibration ........................................................................................................		31
13.2	Humidity calibration...............................................................................................................		32
14	Humidity definitions ...............................................................................................................		33
15	Dew point accuracy ................................................................................................................		36
16	ASCII communications protocol ...........................................................................................		37
17	Water activity measurement..................................................................................................		40
17.1	Water activity: definition and applications.............................................................................		40
17.2	Using the HygroLab 2 or 3 to measure water activity...........................................................		42
17.3	Principle of measurement .....................................................................................................		43
17.4	General recommendations....................................................................................................		44
17.5	Using the AwE mode (HygroLab 3) ......................................................................................		45
17.6	Using the AwQuick mode (HygroLab 3) ...............................................................................		47
18 Accessories for the HygroLab...............................................................................................			50
19	Document releases.................................................................................................................		51
© 2006; Rotronic AG			IN-E-HyLab-V4_11

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11	Rotronic AG
	Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code	Unit
HygroLab bench top indicator version 4:	Instruction Manual
instruction manual		Document Type
Document title	Page 3 of 51

Applicability:

This manual is valid for all instruments with firmware version 4.x, where 4.x can be 4.0, 4.1, etc. (see Function Menu, SYS STATUS). Changes to the last digit of the version number reflect minor firmware changes that do not affect the manner in which the instrument should be operated.

Note: Instrument configuration requires a PC with the optional ROTRONIC HW4 software version 1.2.2 or higher. Instructions for using the software are not included in this manual. These instructions are shipped separately on the software CD ROM.

1 Overview

The HygroLab is a bench-top laboratory humidity temperature indicator that can be used with a wide variety of probes to meet specific application requirements. The HygroLab operates with an external AC adapter (9 to 15 VDC – nominal: 12 VDC).

The HygroLab is available in 3 different models:

HygroLab 1: basic indicator

-Accepts up to 2 probes: ROTRONIC HygroClip digital probes or analog probes1)

-Simultaneous display of relative humidity and temperature (one probe at a time)

-Software-based probe calibration (1-point or multi-point) 2)

1)ROTRONIC analog probes only – restrictions apply

2)Applies only to the ROTRONIC HygroClip digital probes

HygroLab 2: standard indicator

-Accepts up to 4 probes: ROTRONIC HygroClip digital probes or analog probes1)

-Relative humidity, temperature, dew point, wet bulb, mixing ratio, enthalpy, etc., or user defined calculation such as the difference between temperature and dew point 2)

-Software-based probe calibration (1-point or multi-point) 3)

-Possibility of using one of the four probes as a reference to do a 1-point adjustment of the other probes 3)

-RS232 and RS485 serial ports or Ethernet (TCP/IP), RS-232 and RS-485 ports 4)

-Optional analog outputs (repeat analog probe input signals)

1)Third-party pressure probe or ROTRONIC analog probe – restrictions apply

2)Uses either a fixed barometric pressure value or the measurements from an analog pressure probe for those parameters that require pressure as a computational input. The fixed pressure value can be changed with the optional HW4 software.

3)Applies only to the ROTRONIC HygroClip digital probes

4)The optional HW4 software facilitates both networking and instrument configuration

© 2006; Rotronic AG

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11	Rotronic AG
	Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code	Unit
HygroLab bench top indicator version 4:	Instruction Manual
instruction manual		Document Type
Document title	Page 4 of 51

HygroLab 3: general purpose indicator with water activity functions

Same as HygroLab 2, except for:

-Accelerated water activity measurement with up to 4 probes (AwQuick mode): allows the measurement of most products in typically 5 minutes

-Full equilibration measurement with up to 4 probes (Standard mode) with automatic detection of equilibrium conditions

-Analog probe inputs with 12-bit resolution

HygroLab 1

HygroLab 2 and 3

2 General description

2.1Power requirements

The HygroLab operates with an external AC adapter providing 9 to15 VDC, 100 mA. The power receptacle is a 3.5 mm Jack female with DC+ center.

Note: when equipped with the optional Ethernet module, the HygroLab requires an AC adapter able to provide 300 mA.

2.2Probes and probe inputs

Model	HygroLab 1	HygroLab 2	HygroLab 3
Number of probe inputs	2	4	4
Probe types 1)	ROTRONIC Digital	ROTRONIC Digital	ROTRONIC Digital
	ROTRONIC Analog	ROTRONIC Analog	ROTRONIC Analog
		Third Party Analog	Third Party Analog
Number of digital input channels	2	4	4
Number of analog input channels	4	8	8
Analog input A/D resolution	10-bit	10-bit	12-bit

1) Unless otherwise specified when ordering, all probe inputs are factory programmed to accept a HygroClip digital probe and the voltage powering the probe is the AC adapter voltage (12 VDC nominal). Prior to using any analog probe, the corresponding probe input should be re-programmed. With the HygroLab 2 and 3, this can be done with the HW4 software after connecting the RS232 port of the HygroLab to a PC (see separate software manual).

© 2006; Rotronic AG

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11	Rotronic AG
	Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code	Unit
HygroLab bench top indicator version 4:	Instruction Manual
instruction manual		Document Type
Document title	Page 5 of 51

IMPORTANT: All probes connected to the HygroLab can be supplied with 5 VDC by opening solder pad B12 and closing solder pad B13 on the main PCB. – see page 13: selection of the probe supply voltage.

2.2.1 HygroClip digital probes

The HygroLab is primarily designed for use with the ROTRONIC HygroClip digital humidity temperature probes. These probes permit to take full advantage of all the features and functions of the HygroLab.

The ROTRONIC HygroClip digital probes are highly accurate and are calibrated entirely by means of software (no adjustment potentiometers). Because calibration and other data are stored in the probe non-volatile memory, the probes are fully interchangeable. When a probe requires calibration or has to be repaired, it can be replaced with another probe in a few seconds.

The ROTRONIC HygroClip digital probes are available in different configurations so as to meet the requirements of each application:

HygroClip S measurement in air max. 85°C (185°F)

HygroClip SP05 measurement in air ducts max. 85°C (185°F)

HygroClip SC05 measurement in tight spaces max. 100°C (212°F)

HygroClip HK25 / HK40 air probe measurement at high temperature HK25: max. 100°C (212°F)

HK40: max. 200°C (392°F) wire mesh filter

HygroClip HP28 insertion probe measurement of materials in bulk max. 85°C (185°F)

HygroClip HS28 sword probe measurement of paper stacks/rolls max. 85°C (185°F)

Note: all of the above probes are designed for use with the HygroPalm indicator and have a DAT05 connector. An adapter cable MOK-01-B5 is required for connection to the HygroLab (see Accessories). Similarly, the HygroClip probes designed for use with the HygroFlex transmitter

© 2006; Rotronic AG

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11	Rotronic AG
	Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code	Unit
HygroLab bench top indicator version 4:	Instruction Manual
instruction manual		Document Type
Document title	Page 6 of 51

have a T7 connector (not shown here). These probes can be connected to the HygroLab with the T7-03-B5 adapter cable.

AW-DIO and AwVC-DIO water activity probes

Direct connection to the HygroLab (probe has a B5 connector)

2.2.2 Analog probes

The HygroLab can be used with one or more analog probes. The corresponding probe input(s) as well as the scale and unit of the analog input signal(s) should be programmed with the HW4 software prior to using the probe(s). For example, an analog pressure probe may used to provide the local value of barometric pressure for the computation of parameters such as the wet bulb temperature, mixing ratio or enthalpy.

Use of analog probes is subject to the following restrictions and limitations:

a.ROTRONIC analog humidity-temperature probes with the standard temperature output signal of

– 0.5…2.0 V = -50…200°C: because the HygroLab cannot read a negative voltage signal, temperature measurement is generally limited to values above freezing.

b.Third-party analog probes: single channel probes (one signal), output signal within the range of 0 to 2.5 VDC, supply voltage: 9 VDC or less, maximum current consumption: 10 mA.

c.Resolution is limited by the 10-bit A/D converter 1) used for the analog inputs. This converter provides a theoretical maximum of 1024 counts for an input voltage span of 2.5 VDC. In theory, this gives a resolution of 2.5 / 1024 = 0.00244 V. In practice, it is not possible to get 100% of the counts from an A/D converter and the actual resolution should be about 0.0027 V (typical). For example, if a probe with a temperature signal of 0…1 V = 0…100°C is being used, the signal resolution will be about 100 x 1 x 0.0027 = 0.27°C.

1) HygroLab 3: 12-bit A/D converter

2.3Analog outputs (optional)

Analog outputs are optional on the HygroLab 2 and 3. These outputs simply repeat the analog inputs (if any analog probe is being used). See Connectors - Optional analog output connector.

© 2006; Rotronic AG

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11	Rotronic AG
	Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code	Unit
HygroLab bench top indicator version 4:	Instruction Manual
instruction manual		Document Type
Document title	Page 7 of 51

2.4Serial interface (HygroLab 2 and 3)

Both the HygroLab 2 and 3 have external receptacles (located on the back panel) that provide both a RS-232 and a RS-485 interface.

Serial interface settings

The HygroLab indicator is compatible with the ROTRONIC HW4 software (version 1.2.2 or higher) and backward compatible with the ROTRONIC HW3 software. Each software uses a different communications protocol and different settings regarding the parity, number of data bits and number of stop bits. When interrogated, the HygroLab automatically recognizes which software and which protocol is being used. This allows the HygroLab to be used with either HW3 or HW4 without requiring a manual configuration of the HygroLab serial settings.

When used with HW4, the HygroLab automatically sets its serial interface as follows:

Parity	: none
Data bits	: 8
Stop bits	: 1

When used with HW3, the HygroLab automatically sets its serial interface as follows:

Parity	: even
Data bits	: 7
Stop bits	: 1

Note: the HygroLab will automatically set its serial interface to the above settings when interrogated by a third-party software that uses the same ASCII commands as HW3 to request data. On models with the optional Ethernet interface, the internal module must be re-configured as indicated in document IN-E-TCPIP-Conf_11 (available in PDF format).

IMPORTANT: The HygroLab can be configured by the user with a Baud rate of 57600. The factory default Baud rate of 19200 is compatible with both HW3 and HW4. The Baud rate of 57600 is compatible only with HW4.

RS-232 interface

This interface is used to read measurement data, adjust any HygroClip probe connected to the HygroLab and to configure the HygroFlex. The RS-232 allows direct connection of the HygroLab to the COM port of a PC (up to 150 m / 490 ft separation)

The HW4 software (version 1.2.2 or higher) should be installed on the PC.

It is also possible to connect the HygroLab 2 or HygroLab 3 to an Ethernet network by using a device server with a RS-232 port (TCP/IP encapsulation). Depending on the software used to communicate with the HygroLab, the serial port of the device server should be configured as indicated below:

© 2006; Rotronic AG

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11		Rotronic AG
		Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code		Unit
HygroLab bench top indicator version 4:		Instruction Manual
instruction manual			Document Type
Document title		Page 8 of 51
1) PC with HW4 (version 1.2.2 or higher):
Parity	: none
Data bits	: 8
Stop bits	: 1

2) PC with a third-party software using the same ASCII commands as HW3 to request data (see ASCII communications protocol).

Parity	: even
Data bits	: 7
Stop bits	: 1

RS-485 interface

This interface is used to connect together a number of HygroLab indicators (as well as other ROTRONIC devices) so as to form a RS-485 multi-drop. This is useful when the number of PC ports is limited and provides savings on cabling costs. The RS-485 interface has the same functionality as the RS-232 interface (measurement data, adjustment of HygroClip probes and device configuration).

In a RS-485 multi-drop, the master is automatically the device that is connected to a COM port, USB port or network port (Ethernet) of the PC. Any ROTRONIC device that is equipped with both a RS-232, USB or Ethernet interface and a RS-485 interface can be used as the master. The other devices in the RS-485 multi-drop are slaves. Any HygroLab 2 or HygroLab 3 indicator can be used either as a slave or a master, without special configuration other than giving a unique RS-485 address to each device and setting each device to use the same Baud rate.

© 2006; Rotronic AG

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11	Rotronic AG
	Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code	Unit
HygroLab bench top indicator version 4:	Instruction Manual
instruction manual		Document Type
Document title	Page 9 of 51
Example of a RS-485 multi-drop

In the following example, the master (address 1) is directly connected to a COM port of the PC (RS-232). Units 2 to 64 are slaves.

Address 1

Address 2

Address 3

Address 64

RS232: 3 wires (incl. ground) max. 150 m

RS485: 2 wires, up to 1000m

Important:

-All devices connected to the same RS-485 multi-drop should use the same baud rate

-Each device within the same RS-485 multi-drop should have a unique address

-In theory, HW4 allows an unlimited number of masters, each with up to 63 slaves. Practical limits to the total number of devices are set by the PC.

PC with HW4: Except for the distance limitations specific of a RS-232 connection, the above diagram applies also when the master (for example HygroClip DI interface) is connected to a USB port or to an Ethernet network.

2.5Optional Ethernet (TCP/IP) interface (HygroLab 2 and 3)

As an option, both the HygroLab 2 and HygroLab 3 can be ordered with an Ethernet (TCP/IP) interface in addition to the standard RS-232 and RS-485 serial interface. All different types of interface offer the same functionality. The HW4 software accepts connection to the PC by means of an Ethernet network.

© 2006; Rotronic AG

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11	Rotronic AG
	Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code	Unit
HygroLab bench top indicator version 4:	Instruction Manual
instruction manual		Document Type
Document title	Page 10 of 51

3 Optional configuration and communication software

Depending on the model of HygroLab, the ROTRONIC HW4 software (version 1.2.2 or higher) offers additional functionality such as:

-Networking (unlimited number of masters, up to 64 units per multi-drop)

-Instrument configuration (unit system, etc.)

-Adjustment of the ROTRONIC HygroClip digital probes

-Data logging to a PC disk file

-Graphic functions (both on and off-line)

-Alarm functions (on-screen display, reports, notification by e-mail, etc.)

HW4 is compatible with Windows XP, NT4 with SP6a or higher. For more details see separate instruction manual provided with the software.

The HygroLab is backward compatible with the ROTRONIC HW3 software (Windows 98 or NT)

4 How to configure the HygroLab

The HygroLab is configured by the factory as specified when the instrument was ordered. The configuration can be modified by the user and this requires connecting the HygroLab to a PC with the ROTRONIC HW4 software installed (version 1.2.2 or higher).

Depending on the model of HygroLab, the following can be configured by the user with Device Manager in HW4 (where relevant, the factory default is indicated in bold):

-Device name

-RS-485 address [0]

-Device write protection with password [disabled]

-Fixed barometric pressure value used in some psychrometric calculations [1013.25 hPa]

-Dew or frost point calculation below freezing [frost point]

-Language and unit system

-Probe input type (HygroClip probe, analog pressure probe, other analog probe)

-Input name

-Calculated parameter (HygroClip probe only)

-Barometric pressure (fixed value or read from an input) [fixed]

-Alarm threshold (low and high) for humidity, temperature, calculated parameter or other.

-Parameter or custom calculation associated with each analog output and output scale

-Custom calculation (example: difference between two parameters such as dew point)

-Optional display configuration (resolution, trend indicators, parameters to be displayed)

-Keypad: restricted menu access [not restricted]

-Baud rate (serial interface) [19200]

For more details see separate instruction manual provided with the software.

4.1Internal service connector (HygroLab configuration)

All HygroLab models have an internal RS-232 service connector (MTA) located on the main PCB (see PCB connections). Cable AC1623 is required to connect the HygroFlex MTA connector to COM port of a PC.

© 2006; Rotronic AG

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11	Rotronic AG
	Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code	Unit
HygroLab bench top indicator version 4:	Instruction Manual
instruction manual		Document Type
Document title	Page 11 of 51

Use of the MTA service connector is limited to configuring the instrument (unit system, output range, display, etc.). Both the HygroLab 2 and HygroLab 3 can also be configured via one of the external digital ports.

Instrument configuration requires a PC with the HW4 software installed. Instructions for configuring the HygroLab are provided in the software manual.

4.2Baud rate compatibility requirements

Depending on the model, devices from ROTRONIC use one of the following Baud rates as the factory default:

•57600 bps: HygroLog NT data logger and docking stations

•19200 bps: HygroPalm and HygroLab indicators, HygroFlex and M33 transmitters, HygroClip Alarm programmable alarm card, HygroClip DI interface, HygroStat MB Thermo-Hygrostat

The factory default Baud rate of the HygroLab is compatible both with both the ROTRONIC HW4 and HW3 software and is the recommended Baud rate for the HygroLab.

IMPORTANT:

•All devices connected to a RS-485 multi-drop network (master and slaves) must use the same Baud rate

•Models with the optional Ethernet (TCP/IP) interface: after using HW4 – Device Manager to change the Baud rate, you should also change the configuration of the internal Ethernet module to the new Baud rate (see separate HW4 manual).

Devices and internal Ethernet modules with mismatched Baud rate will not communicate together.

•The Baud rate configuration of a ROTRONIC device can be changed with the Device Manager function (Digital Interface tab) available from within the HW4 software.

•The Baud rate of a Digi Module can be changed only from the module web interface. See separate document IN-E-TCPIP-Conf_11 (available in PDF format).

4.3Ethernet local area network

ROTRONIC devices with an Ethernet (TCP/IP) interface presently use an internal module manufactured by Digi International (Digi Connect ME for a wired connection, Digi Connect WI-ME for a wireless connection). Both types of module feature a web interface that is used to configure the module.

IMPORTANT: The TCP/IP settings of models with an Ethernet (TCP/IP) interface should be configured to be compatible with the local area network. Detailed instructions are provided separately in document IN-E-TCPIP-Conf_11 (available in PDF format).

Models with an Ethernet (TCP/IP) interface are shipped with a Device Configuration Certificate that provides information about the factory configuration settings of both the Ethernet module and device. See example below:

© 2006; Rotronic AG

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11			Rotronic AG
			Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code			Unit
HygroLab bench top indicator version 4:				Instruction Manual
instruction manual					Document Type
Document title				Page 12 of 51
Setting		Value
DHCP or Static Address		Static
IP Address		192.168.1.1
Subnet Mask		255.255.255.0
Default Gateway		192.168.1.0
TCP Port		2101
MAC Address		00:40:9D:28:2D:2A
Firmware Release (device)		1.4
User Name (web interface)		rotronic
Password (web interface)		wlan
Serial Port Configuration Profile		TCP Sockets
Basic Serial Settings
	Baud Rate	57600
	Data Bits	8
	Parity	None
	Stop Bits	1
	Flow Control	None

4.4RS-485 multi-drop network (HygroLab 2 and 3)

Both the HygroLab 2 and HygroLab 3 feature a RS-485 connector. When the number of available PC ports is limited, this connector can be used to connect together up to 64 HygroLab (or other devices) in a multi-dropped arrangement. In principle, an unlimited number of such networks can be monitored with the HW4 software, but each RS-485 multi-drop network is limited to 64 devices. The HygroLab can be used either as a slave or a master, without special configuration. The master is automatically the device that is directly connected to the PC or LAN by means of a RS-232 port or TCP/IP port.

RS-485 Address: the RS-485 address is used to identify the individual devices that are connected to a RS-485 multi-drop and must be unique to each device. This address is part of the HygroLab communications protocol. The factory default for the RS-485 address is 00. In general, this address should not be changed manually (see note below). As far as HW4 is concerned, all masters can share the same RS-485 address. When the HW4 command “Search for RS-485 slaves” is being used, HW4 automatically changes from 00 to 01 the RS-485 address of any master that has slaves attached. As a result, all masters end up with the same RS-485 network address (01). In addition, HW4 automatically changes the RS-485 address of the slaves in each multi-drop from 00 (factory default) to a unique address ranging from 02 to 64. The same address range (02 to 64) is used again when there is more than one multi-drop RS485 network.

Notes:

-We recommend using HW4 to give each HygroLab a unique name for easier identification.

-In the situation where an RS-485 network is to be monitored by software other than HW4, you will have to use HW4 to give each device a unique RS-485 address prior to connecting to the network.

-If you change an instrument from master to slave, be sure to change the RS address of the instrument to 00 before establishing the RS-485 connection. Not doing so may prevent HW4 from detecting the instrument. After detecting the instrument, HW4 will automatically change the RS address to 02 or higher. Please note that HW4 may eventually change the address of any master with address 00.

© 2006; Rotronic AG

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11	Rotronic AG
	Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code	Unit
HygroLab bench top indicator version 4:	Instruction Manual
instruction manual		Document Type
Document title	Page 13 of 51

-All devices within a multi-drop should use the same Baud rate. See Baud rate compatibility requirements.

-Models with Ethernet (TCP/IP) interface: please note that the Baud rate of the HygroLab and the Baud rate of the internal Ethernet module should be set to the same value.

RS-485 Cable: Using a symmetrical transmission method in combination with low capacity/ low attenuation twisted pair cables, allows extremely reliable long distance connections. The use of a high grade shielded cable avoids cross talk between the transmitted signals and also reduces the potential of external interference. For the RS-485 cable, we recommend using a cable

Cat. 5e ANSI/ TIA /EIA-568-A-5.

In general the RS-485 cable should be shielded and comply with the following specifications:

-	Cable capacitance	<=300pF/m or 90 pF/ft
-	Line impedance	100	Ω ±15 Ω
-	Line resistance	140	Ω/km or 225 Ω
-	Signal lines	Twisted pair

In addition, we recommend terminating each end of the RS-485 cable with a 240 Ohm resistor.

RS485 Network:

Addr. 1

RS485 device connectors Addr. n

240 Ω

240

Ω

Note: all instruments connected to the network should use the same baud rate

Voltage potential issues: The existence of a voltage-potential between instruments that are interconnected can be a source on concern in large installations, installations with different mains power supply and in inter-building networking.

As a first measure, the shield of a signal cable should be connected at both ends. In the case of a data cable, a low-resistance potential equalization cable may also have to be used. This cable should be run parallel and as near as possible to the data cable, preferably in the same conduit. The shield of the data cable should under no circumstances be used as equalization cable! The conductors of the potential equalization cable should ideally be stranded in order to be effective also in case of highfrequency interference.

© 2006; Rotronic AG

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11	Rotronic AG
	Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code	Unit
HygroLab bench top indicator version 4:	Instruction Manual
instruction manual		Document Type
Document title	Page 14 of 51
The following points should also be observed:

•Close the parasitic circuit

•Connect all devices to the potential equalizing cable as often as possible. Electrical conductors such as machine elements, metal tubes or supporting constructions should be integrated into the system.

•Protect the potential-equalization cable and connections against corrosion.

•Select the cross-section of the potential equalization cable according to the maximum equalization current.

If these different measures do not correct the problem, a galvanic separation according to

ISO 9549 may have to be installed. You may also want to consider the use of fiber-optic cables.

4.5Selection of the probe supply voltage (main PCB)

Starting with PCB number 66.0739.0302, the probes can be powered with either 5 VDV or directly from the AC adapter (nominal 12 VDC). The default factory setting is to use the voltage from the AC adapter. All probes connected to the HygroLab can be supplied with 5 VDC by opening solder pad B12 and closing solder pad B13 on the main PCB. Depending on the probe model, changing the probe supply voltage may require the probe to be re-adjusted (please, consult factory).

5 Operation

Connect the AC adapter to the Power connector of the HygroLab and connect a probe 1). Press on the ON/OFF key. After a brief test and introductory message, the measurements appear on the LC display. Measurements are updated to the display at the rate of 0.75 sec. x number of digital probes (HygroClip) connected to the HygroLab.

1) Unless otherwise specified when ordering, all probe inputs are factory programmed to accept a HygroClip digital probe. Prior to using any analog probe, the corresponding probe input should be re-programmed. This can be done with the HW4 software after connecting the RS232 port of the HygroLab to a PC (see separate HW4 manual).

© 2006; Rotronic AG

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11	Rotronic AG
	Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code	Unit
HygroLab bench top indicator version 4:	Instruction Manual
instruction manual		Document Type
Document title	Page 15 of 51
HygroLab 1	HygroLab 2 and 3

5.1Unit system

The unit system can easily be set to Metric or English from the keypad (except HygroLab 1) -see MENU, SETTINGS. The unit system can also be changed from a PC with the optional HW4 software installed. In that case, connect the HygroLab to a free COM port of the PC using either the internal service connector (all models) or the RS232 port (HygroLab 2 and 3)

Note: except for the HygroLab 1, the instrument can be configured to display water activity instead of relative humidity: (instrument configuration with the HW4 software):

1.000 Aw = 100.0 %RH

To change the factory configuration for humidity either use the keypad MENU, SETTINGS (except HygroLab 1) or use the optional HW4 software installed on a PC and the appropriate connecting cable: cable AC1623 for all models (see Accessories) or cable type RS232 9pol ST-BU for the HygroLab 2 and HygroLab 3 (see Connectors for part number).

5.2Display and keypad

The LC display shows which probe input is being displayed (small indicator on top of the display) and up to 2 parameters measured by the probe, with the associated engineering unit. When relevant, the message line provides additional information.

Probe Input		Humidity and Temperature
(1-4) from left to right		Calculated Value and Temperature
		Calculated Value and Humidity
Parameter or			Engineering
Trend indicator			Units

Message Line

© 2006; Rotronic AG

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11	Rotronic AG
	Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code	Unit
HygroLab bench top indicator version 4:	Instruction Manual
instruction manual		Document Type
Document title	Page 16 of 51
		ON/OFF: turns the
		instrument on or off

		ENTER: when the menu is
		active, press this key to confirm
MENU : press this key		a selection
to activate the functions
menu. The different	UP / DOWN: press one of these
menu items appear on
the LCD message line.	keys to change the probe input
Press this key again to	that is being displayed. When the
exit the menu	menu is active, use these keys to
	navigate the menu, make a
	selection or to change a number

5.3Probe Input Selection

The display can be switched between probes with the ▼ or ▲ key. The selection is confirmed on the message line of LC display as well as by an indicator located at the top of the display.

6 Function menu

To access the function menu, press the MENU key. The first menu item appears on the message line of the LC display. Use the ▼ or ▲ key to navigate the menu. When the desired menu item appears on the message line of the LC display, press the ENTER key to select. Some menu items have sub-items. These can be selected with the ▲ or ▼ and ENTER keys. To exit the menu and return to the normal display mode, press the MENU key. The instrument also returns automatically to the normal display mode when no key is being pressed for some time (main menu: 10 sec., submenu: 30 sec.).

© 2006; Rotronic AG

IN-E-HyLab-V4_11